Eflornithine Cream

What is this medication?

EFLORNITHINE (ee FLOR ni theen) reduces unwanted facial hair. It works by slowing hair growth. It may also make the hair fine and light-colored.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Vaniqa

What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• An unusual or allergic reaction to eflornithine, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the direction on the prescription label. Wash your hands before and after use. Apply a thin film of cream to the affected areas of the face and chin twice a day (at least 8 hours apart), or as often as directed by your care team. Rub the cream in thoroughly. Do not wash the treatment area for at least 4 hours after application of the cream. Wait a few minutes after applying this cream before you apply cosmetics or sunscreens. This cream does not permanently remove unwanted facial hair. Continue to use your normal method for hair removal until desired results have been achieved. Do not use your medication more often than directed.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 12 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the affected area without asking your care team.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Improvement of the condition occurs gradually. It may take 4 to 8 weeks. If there is no improvement after 6 months, talk to your care team about stopping this medication. About 8 weeks after stopping treatment with this medication, the hair will return to the same condition as before treatment.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

• Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Burning, itching, crusting, or peeling of treated skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

• Acne
• Dizziness
• Hair loss
• Headache
• Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness
• Small, red, pus-filled bumps on skin around hair follicles
• Upset stomach

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Do not freeze. Throw away any unused medication after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.